Xanax Detox
Xanax detox is a process that involves the presentation of uncomfortable and potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
One of the most commonly prescribed psychotherapeutic medications, Xanax is a branded form of alprazolam, a drug in the benzodiazepine class. While Xanax can be highly effective for the short-term relief of panic and anxiety, all benzos have the potential for abuse and addiction.
Discover how to detox from Xanax as safely as possible and learn what Xanax withdrawal involves.
What is Xanax Withdrawal?
Xanax withdrawal that occurs if you suddenly moderate or discontinue the use of Xanax after sustained use.
The Xanax withdrawal process is associated with a variety of physical and psychological side effects as the body begins adjusting to the absence of benzodiazepines.
Xanax Withdrawal
Xanax affects the areas of your brain responsible for mood, reward, and motivation. If you become physically dependent on Xanax, structural and functional changes are triggered in these regions of the brain.
When you stop using Xanax, it takes time for the brain to adjust. During this period of withdrawal, you may experience these psychological side effects:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Detachment
- Panic attacks
- Problems with focus
- Restlessness
- Delirium
- Hallucinations
- Suicidal thoughts
Some people may experience PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome) with withdrawal symptoms manifesting 18 months to 2 years after Xanax detox.
Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms
For some people, Xanax withdrawal involves mild symptoms that subside within a few days. Those who have been using Xanax long-term, though, many experience acute and protracted withdrawal that involves psychological symptoms persisting for months or years after the last use of Xanax.
These are the most common physical Xanax withdrawal symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Painful teeth
- Insomnia
- Fever
- Sweating
- Hyperventilation
- Tingling in legs or arms
- Numb fingers
- Hypersensitivity
- Altered sense of smell
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Tremors
- Heart palpitations
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Muscle spasms
- Muscle aches
- Muscle aches
- Tense jaw
- Raised temperature
- Increased blood pressure
- Rapidly rising heart rate
- Hypertension
- Grand mal seizure
Xanax Withdrawal Timeline
Many factors impact timeline of Xanax withdrawal, including:
- Duration of benzo use
- Xanax dosage
- Prescription misuse or abuse
- Co-occurring alcohol or substance abuse
- Underlying physical health conditions
- Other mental health conditions
Here is an approximate timeline for a standard Xanax withdrawal experience:
How Long Does it Take to Detox from Xanax?
Day 1
Xanax is a short-acting benzo with a brief elimination half-life. This means that the effects of this medication wear off rapidly, typically triggering Xanax withdrawal symptoms 6 hours after the last dose.
This early phase of Xanax detox is characterized by feelings of irritability and anxiety that become more intense as Xanax withdrawal progresses.
1-4 DAYS
The most acute symptoms of Xanax withdrawal present over the first four days of detox. Symptoms may include rebound anxiety and insomnia accompanied by physical symptoms like sweating, shaking, and muscle pain.
7-14 DAYS
With the acute phase of detox complete, lingering symptoms should fade over the second week before disappearing completely.
7-14 Days
With the acute phase of detox complete, lingering symptoms should fade over the second week before disappearing completely.
Week 3+
If any Xanax withdrawal symptoms persist after two weeks, they should be mild and manageable.
Detoxing from Xanax
Detoxing from Xanax should be done under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional, as sudden or rapid discontinuation of the drug can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. A healthcare provider will typically recommend a tapering schedule, which involves gradually reducing the dose of Xanax over a period of time to minimize withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications.
During detox, you may experience withdrawal symptoms that can be severe and require medical attention. In some cases, Xanax withdrawal may cause life-threatening seizures.
To manage withdrawal symptoms, a healthcare provider may recommend medications to ease anxiety and promote sleep. Additionally, behavioral therapies and relaxation techniques can help manage anxiety and other symptoms associated with Xanax withdrawal.
Recovery from Xanax addiction is a process that requires commitment and ongoing support. Engaging with a supervised medical detox and following a comprehensive treatment plan can increase the chances of successful recovery.
How long does it take to detox from Xanax, then?
Xanax Detox Programs In California
If you need a detox for Xanax in California, we offer both inpatient and outpatient detox programs in Southern California at Gratitude Lodge.
For a supervised medical Xanax detox Los Angeles County, head to Gratitude Lodge in Long Beach.
Take advantage of continuous clinical and emotional care as you detox from Xanax and then transition directly into ongoing inpatient or outpatient treatment at our pet-friendly treatment center.
For supervised Xanax detox programs in Orange County, consider Gratitude Lodge’s Newport Beach treatment centers, ideally located near the ocean in an area known for its robust sober community.
Following your Xanax detox in Newport Beach, you can address the psychological side of benzo addiction in ongoing inpatient or outpatient Xanax rehab.
Xanax Detox Program at Gratitude Lodge
For the best treatment for Xanax addiction, choose one of our three Gratitude Lodge locations at Long Beach and Newport Beach.
Our luxury rehab centers are pet-friendly and inclusive, providing an environment free of distractions, temptations, and triggers.
Kickstart your recovery from Xanax addiction with a supervised medical detox. A team of credentialed addiction specialists and medical professionals will administer a tapered reduction in your Xanax dosage, streamlining the withdrawal process and purging benzodiazepines from your system.
Once detoxed, transition directly into our residential rehab program or consider an intensive outpatient program if you need a more flexible and affordable route to recovery.
Call the friendly admissions team today at 800-994-2184 to engage with safe and effective treatment and detox for Xanax.
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